Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with all formalities finalised, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish international becomes the Gunners’ first addition of the 2025 summer transfer window.
Zubimendi, 26, touched down in London on Friday to wrap up the move, which sees Arsenal pay a fee of around €64–65 million (£54.7m) in structured installments, slightly above his €60 million release clause. The flexible payment plan allows the North London club to manage Financial Fair Play constraints and maintain room for further reinforcements.
Romano confirmed the deal’s completion on X, saying: “Arsenal and Real Sociedad have completed all paperwork for Martin Zubimendi deal, it’s all signed. Zubimendi has completed formal steps of his move in London as he will be first summer signing for #AFC.”
The Euro 2024-winning midfielder had been a top target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who personally spoke with Zubimendi earlier this year to pitch the club’s long-term project. Talks had been ongoing since January, with a verbal agreement reached in May. Out of respect for Real Sociedad, formal procedures were delayed until now.
Arsenal fended off strong late interest from Real Madrid, with reports in Spain suggesting a last-minute intervention from new Los Blancos boss Xabi Alonso. However, both Romano and The Athletic’s David Ornstein maintained throughout that the Gunners had the deal secured.
Zubimendi, a product of Sociedad’s academy, made 33 La Liga starts in the 2024/25 season and featured prominently in Spain’s UEFA Nations League campaign. Known for his composure, intelligent positioning, and elite passing range, he averaged 87% pass accuracy and 5.6 progressive passes per 90 minutes last term. His arrival is expected to allow Declan Rice greater attacking freedom, while replacing the departing Jorginho, who is set to join Flamengo on a free transfer.
Zubimendi’s move is a landmark moment for Arsenal’s summer business under Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta. The North London club are reportedly ready to invest up to £300 million in the window as they aim to strengthen across several key areas. Efforts are ongoing to land a top striker, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko remains high on the list as well as a winger.
Zubimendi is expected to begin pre-season training with Arsenal in July, as preparations begin for a crucial 2025/26 campaign.
